Two new Kawasaki bikes, one electric (EV) and one hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), recently raced at the Suzuka Circuit, providing a glimpse of the company’s future. The popular Suzuka 8 Hours endurance race was chosen to ensure maximum exposure for Kawasaki’s all-new electrified bikes.
The EV bike produced the typical hum of an electric motor, whereas the HEV sounded more like a traditional ICE-powered bike. While no official timelines have been announced, the launch in markets such as America could occur by the end of this year.
The styling of Kawasaki’s pure-EV bike appears to be inspired by Z-range motorcycles. An aggressive front fascia, sinewy fuel tank design, step-up split seats, prominent tail section, standard telescopic front forks, and rear swingarm are among the key features.
With almost nobody panelling, Kawasaki’s new all-electric bike should get more mileage out of the battery. At this time, it is unclear whether the battery is a fixed or removable unit. From the sides, it appears completely packed, though there could be an opening in the fuel tank casing to reach the battery from the top. According to VIN information, Kawasaki’s all-electric bike has a maximum power output of 15 PS and it will most likely be placed between Z125 and Z250.
Unlike the naked EV, the Kawasaki Hybrid EV bike is fully-faired. It appears to share design elements with the Kawasaki Ninja range. Sharp dual headlamps, a compact windscreen, sharp panels, a step-up seat, and an upswept exhaust are among the key features. The bike clearly has a twin-cylinder engine, and the exhaust is very similar to that of the Ninja 250.
Other vital components include conventional telescopic front forks and mono-shock rear suspension. The braking system has dual discs in the front, which looks impressive and should help manage the extra weight of the hybrid system.
Given India’s growing demand for electric two-wheelers, Kawasaki should not delay in launching its electric lineup in the country. The sooner the better, as competitors such as Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha, and KTM are planning their own electric two-wheelers for India.
